Spring Berry Pavlova

INGREDIENTS

For the meringue:

  • 4 large egg whites, at room temperature

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch

  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the topping:

  • 1cup heavy cream, chilled

  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • Assorted Montreal spring fruits (such as strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, rhubarb)

  • Fresh mint leaves and pistachios, for garnish (optional)

PREPARATION

For the meringue:

  1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.

  3. Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat the egg whites. Increase the speed to high and beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.

  4. Gently fold in the cornstarch, white vinegar, and vanilla extract until well combined.

  5. Spoon the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming a circle or oval shape with slightly raised edges.

  6. Place the meringue in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the meringue is crisp on the outside and slightly chewy on the inside.

  7. Turn off the oven and leave the meringue inside to cool completely with the oven door closed. This helps prevent cracks.

For the toppings:

  1. In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

  2. Once the meringue has cooled completely, carefully transfer it to a serving platter or cake stand.

  3. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top of the meringue.

  4. Prepare the Montreal spring fruits by slicing the strawberries, washing the raspberries and blueberries, and chopping the rhubarb into small pieces.

  5. Arrange the assorted Montreal spring fruits on top of the whipped cream, creating a colorful and decorative pattern.

  6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired, for a pop of color and freshness.

  7. Serve immediately, slicing the pavlova into wedges, and enjoy the light and airy dessert with its delightful combination of crunchy meringue, fluffy cream, and juicy Montreal spring fruits.

    This Spring Berry Pavlova celebrates the fresh and vibrant flavors of spring in Montreal, making it a perfect dessert for any springtime gathering!